Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone is a popular, cost-effective Dubai free zone based at the landmark Meydan complex, minutes from Downtown Dubai. Known for fast, digital-first setup and thousands of approved activities, it suits start-ups, SMEs, consultants, traders and holding companies looking for a flexible, affordable base.
Overview
Established in 2009, Meydan Free Zone is located within the Meydan district near Nad Al Sheba and the Meydan Racecourse, close to Downtown Dubai. It has become one of the most sought-after zones for cost-conscious entrepreneurs thanks to competitive licence packages, a prestigious Dubai address and a streamlined, largely online incorporation process covering over 2,500 approved activities.
Who it suits
Meydan is well suited to consultants, freelancers, e-commerce sellers, general and specialised traders, IT and marketing agencies, media professionals and holding companies. Its zero-visa and low-visa packages appeal to solo founders and small teams, while multi-activity licences let growing businesses combine complementary services under one licence.
Licences & activities
Meydan offers commercial, service, e-commerce and media licences, with packages that can bundle multiple activities. Licence costs start from competitive annual fees, with zero-visa options available and additional visa allocations added at a fixed cost per visa. A flexi-desk or shared workspace address is typically included, satisfying physical-presence requirements.
Setting up
The process is fast and mostly digital: choose your activities and package; submit your details and passport documents online; receive approval and your licence; obtain your establishment card; then apply for residence visas if needed via medical, Emirates ID and status-change steps. Many companies are licensed within days.
Accounting & audit requirements
Meydan companies must keep proper accounting records. While audit filing at renewal is more relaxed than in zones like DMCC, audited financial statements are strongly recommended and effectively required to claim 0% Corporate Tax as a Qualifying Free Zone Person under UAE rules. Every Meydan company must register for Corporate Tax and, in most cases, VAT once thresholds apply. AOPA member firms provide bookkeeping, audit and Corporate Tax and VAT support for Meydan businesses.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Meydan Free Zone popular with start-ups?
Meydan combines competitive licence pricing, a prestigious central-Dubai address and a fast, largely online setup process across more than 2,500 activities, making it attractive to founders and SMEs.
Does Meydan offer zero-visa licences?
Yes. Meydan provides zero-visa and low-visa packages, with additional visa slots available at a fixed cost, so you only pay for the visa allocation you actually need.
Do Meydan companies need to register for Corporate Tax?
Yes. All Meydan companies must register for UAE Corporate Tax. To access the 0% rate on qualifying income they must meet Qualifying Free Zone Person conditions, which effectively requires audited accounts.
Is an audit required in Meydan Free Zone?
Audit filing is less strictly enforced at renewal than in some zones, but audited financial statements are strongly recommended and are needed to substantiate a 0% Corporate Tax claim.